Panel Discusses 60 Years of the Voting Rights Act

A panel hosted by the Brennan Judicial Center on Tuesday marked the 60th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act, reflecting on its past and future implications.

The discussion featured several panelists, including Nikema Williams, the president and a representative from Georgia; Natalie Tennant, a Kanawha County Commissioner in West Virginia and former Secretary of State; Dr. Alexander Keesal from Harvard’s Kennedy School; Sean Morales Doyle, the Director of the Brennan Center’s Voting Rights Program; and Rennie Powell, an attorney with the Native American Rights Fund.

Much of the conversation focused on the lasting legacy of the Voting Rights Act, particularly in light of the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in Shelby v. Holder.

This case, originating from Shelby County, Alabama, struck down specific federal provisions intended to shield against racial discrimination in voting, leading to significant changes in voting regulations.

“Since the Shelby decision, states have enacted over 100 restrictive voting laws that may disproportionately affect certain populations,” Morales Doyle noted.

According to a report from the Brennan Center, which examined the effects of various legal decisions, the disparity in voter turnout between white voters and voters of color has widened since this ruling. “Particularly in areas once protected under the Act, we’re seeing that racial turnout is increasing at a faster rate than in other parts of the country,” he added.

Now representing the seat once held by John Lewis, Williams called for strong congressional action to bolster protections within the Voting Rights Act. She emphasized the need to examine current instances of racial gerrymandering and judicial limitations that continue to jeopardize minority voting rights.

“It’s crucial to understand this in a modern context. Just because the methods have changed—like different ways of imposing obstacles—doesn’t mean the outcomes aren’t the same,” Williams argued.

The discussion also endorsed the John Lewis Voting Rights Promotion Act, reintroduced annually in the House since 2013. This legislation seeks to restore and enforce protective measures for communities historically affected by voter suppression.

Williams also highlighted a comprehensive voting rights package with ten proposed laws aimed at making voting more accessible, especially addressing long lines and language barriers to voting.

Powell emphasized how vital the Voting Rights Act remains for promoting political engagement, pointing out that Section 2, which prohibits discriminatory practices in voting, has continually facilitated enforcement against racism in elections.

He also noted that the Act plays a critical role in ensuring representation for Native Americans, reflecting on the importance of multilingual voting materials in regions like Alaska, where many indigenous languages are spoken.

Addressing threats to Section 2 of the Act, Keesal mentioned a recent judicial ruling that restricted citizens in the 8th Circuit from suing over alleged violations, essentially limiting enforcement options.

“Only the Department of Justice can initiate those suits now, but given the current political landscape, it seems unlikely that they will pursue them,” he remarked.

Panelists discussed ongoing legal challenges, including one involving the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians, who are contesting a legislative map in North Dakota that they believe dilutes their voting power.

Powell expressed concern that voters in the 8th Circuit may have fewer protections than those elsewhere in the country. “It’s disheartening, especially for Indigenous voters, who represent a significant demographic in that area,” he said.

The panel concluded with discussions on the historical context of the Voting Rights Act and the continued need for vigilance in protecting voting rights. Keesal reminded attendees that circumstances can change, making what seems impossible today achievable in the near future.

Powell encouraged everyone to advocate for voting rights, stressing that the Voting Rights Act remains a crucial tool against ongoing racism in elections.

Williams mirrored this sentiment, urging active participation in safeguarding civil rights. “We are living through a pivotal moment in our civil rights movement, much like what John Lewis fought for in his time,” she stated.